South American Cichlids

Discus, Angelfish and Pike Cichlids

South America cichlids or New World cichlids are a popular group
of freshwater fish from the family Cichlidae that are native to
the lakes and rivers of Central and South America. This group
consists of a variety of fish ranging in size, shape and disposition.
Some of these fish are popular with first time aquarium owners
because of their hardiness and ease of keeping. The most popular
of the South American cichlids are the Oscar, Angelfish and Discus
cichlid.

South American cichlids can range in sizes from the very small
Apistogramma to very large Oscars and Pike cichlids. Many of them
are territorial and may display high levels of aggression. Because
of their aggressive nature, they should only be kept with other
cichlids of similar size and temperament. The exception to this
rule is with Angelfish, Discus and dwarf cichlids, which can all
mix with other community fish. A home aquarium for South American
cichlids should have plenty of plants, rocks and caves for the
fish to seek protection and claim territories. The tank water
should be soft and acidic.

Aggressive Cichlids

This group contains many of the more popular South American
Cichlids. Many of these fish are territorial and can display high
levels of aggression. Their aggression levels can become even
higher when breeding. Careful research should be done before mixing
any of these cichlids with other fish to make sure they are compatible.
The most popular of this group are the
Oscar, the Green Terror and
the Convict cichlid.

South American Pike Cichlids

Pike cichlids are a group of South American cichlids of
the genus Crenicichla. They feature torpedo shaped bodies and
can range in size from 4" to 24". They are also aggressive and
can display higher levels of aggression towards other Pike cichlids.
It is best to only keep them with other fish of a similar size
and temperament. The most popular of these cichlids are the Crenicichla
compressiceps and the Crenicichla regain.

South American Hybrids

South American Hybrid cichlids are not native to the waters
of Central and South America but are actually produced by selective
breeding by aquarium owners. The unique shapes and colors of these
cichlids keep them in high demand with aquarium owners. The most
popular South American Hybrid cichlids are the Blood Parrot cichlid,
the Flowerhorn and the Red Texas cichlid.

Angelfish and Discus

Angelfish and Discus cichlids are the most popular of
all the South American cichlids. Angelfish
are very popular with first time aquarium owners because of their
ease of keeping and breeding. Discus
fish continue to grow in popularity with hobbyists because
of their unique shape and variety of color strains. However, they
are more sensitive to water quality and only recommended for advanced
hobbyists.